Activists promoting the beginning of Pride Week 2007 chose to air their concerns yesterday on the steps of the Willard Building -- right next to Willard Preacher Gary Cattell.

Christina Swomley, who is the president of SpeakOUT, said that the group purposely chose the Willard Building to draw controversial crowds that often listen to Cattell preach.

"We're promoting the theme of 'Camp it UP' and are dressed up as being flamboyant and drag, which is the ultimate camp," Swomley (senior-psychology) said.

As students gathered at the site, group members stood on Willard's ledge, wearing the gay pride rainbow flag, heels, dresses, wigs and other brightly colored clothing to promote this year's theme, which is 'Camp it UP'.

Cattell, in response, focused his argument on the immorality of homosexuality, feuding with students on the basis of religion.

"The preacher looked more flustered than ever," Mac Mcalpin (junior-broadcast journalism) said. "I don't agree with him, but it's good for LBGTA to come out and express their opinions. It's entertaining."

Cattell argued that homosexuals couldn't be right with God, adding they cannot prove they are born homosexual and cannot expect others to be convinced without proving themselves first.

"We're having fun while he's angry," Chris Lenn (junior-economics), a Pride Week advocate said.

As the crowd grew, more and more students became engaged in the conversations.

"I think it's exciting that people are doing what they want. It's sad that others are walking by yelling out, 'Fag,' " Kerry Cavanaugh (sophomore-division of undergraduate studies) said. "You can believe what you want, but don't have to be mean about it. Everyone sins, it's just a matter of how."

Students engaged in heated conversations with Cattell, who remained calm while arguing over the morality of homosexuality.

"The Willard Preacher is comparing homosexuality to rape and incest when they have nothing to do with each other," Tatum Cohen (communication arts and science-senior) said. "It's sad that people can't be supportive; if they're in love, they're in love."

Most students felt that everyone has a right to express their opinion, and some said they disagreed with Cattell.

"I am a Catholic, but I'm also pro-gay pride," Kara Kratsas (junior-Eastern Asian studies) said.